Your Guide to Wood-Burning Appliance Safety
Whether you have a cozy wood stove, a classic fireplace, or a modern pellet stove, ensuring its safe operation is paramount. That’s where a WETT inspection comes in, and at Truvue, we’re proud to offer this essential service as an ancillary part of our comprehensive home inspections.
WETT stands for Wood Energy Technology Transfer. Essentially, a WETT inspection is a thorough evaluation of your wood-burning appliance and its entire venting system, conducted by a certified professional. It’s not just about looking at the fireplace itself; it encompasses the chimney, the flue, the clearances to combustible materials, and the overall installation to ensure it meets safety standards and building codes. Think of it as a specialized health check for your wood-burning system.
What Does a WETT Inspection Involve?
During a WETT inspection, our certified Truvue inspector will conduct a meticulous examination. This includes checking the chimney for creosote buildup, cracks, or blockages, and assessing the integrity of the flue liner. We’ll verify that the appliance itself is in good condition, free from damage, and operating efficiently. Crucially, we’ll measure the clearances from the appliance and its venting to any nearby combustible materials like walls, ceilings, and furniture, ensuring they meet the required safety distances. The inspector will also examine the hearth and its construction to confirm it’s adequate for fire protection. Furthermore, our WETT inspectors will also tell you how to properly maintain your system to make sure your family is safe year after year. This includes advice on proper wood burning techniques, regular cleaning schedules, and recognizing signs that might indicate a problem.